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Students are frequently assigned to write papers or create presentations about topics of popular interest. To start, they will need to take steps in finding information and creating a project for their topics. Below are the steps for doing these types of assignments.
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The hardest part of research is often getting started or choosing a topic. For examples, see the online tutorial, Choosing a Topic. For ideas, the following online sources list current topics.
Access Science. (McGraw-Hill) - Browse the section "Essay Topics" and its broader categories in this science encyclopedia.| Back to Top | |
Some topics require knowledge of their background or history. Reference books such as encyclopedias and almanacs can provide that type of information. Here are a few resources that may be used.
Use the UWF Library Catalog to find books by using a keyword or subject search. In addition, use the catalog to find the following book series which provide good background on current topics; these books often provide multiple viewpoints of a topic.
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To find the most current information on a topic, use databases to find recent articles and the news media for current news. Databases that cover multiple subject arease are listed below, along with links to news providers. For specialized sources, select the appropriate Subject Research Guide for your topic.
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Once information has been gathered, its quality needs to be reviewed. The researcher should evaluate its authenticity, accuracy and appropriateness for the report. Below are some resources that show how this is done.
Critically Analyzing Information Sources - http://www.library.cornell.edu/olinuris/ref/research/skill26.htm| Back to Top | |
Assignments or speeches have formats in which they need to be prepared and presented. Refer to your course syllabus, assignment notes or handouts from your instructor for specific instructions on your assignment. For guidelines on MLA, APA, or Turabian formats, see the Subject Research Guide Style Guides.
We recommend the following resources for writing and speech preparation. In addition, writing assignments should be reviewed by a peer for errors and feedback; the UWF Writing Lab offers this service to UWF students. Speeches and presentations should be carefully planned and rehearsed before their final presentation.
Holt Handbook. 1995. (Ref Desk PE 1408 K675 1995 & Emerald Coast Campus Library)| Back to Top | |
Created by Peggy Toifel
Updated by Kristy Padron, English Literature Librarian
University of West Florida Libraries
Date Last Updated: March 2007
